05/30/2026
🏐 Introducing John Cook as the recipient of the 2026 Mayoral Award of Excellence!
As longtime head coach of the University of Nebraska Women's Volleyball program, Cook elevated Nebraska into one of the most successful and nationally celebrated programs in collegiate athletics, helping redefine the visibility and cultural impact of women’s volleyball in the United States.
One of the defining moments of his legacy came in 2023 when Nebraska Volleyball hosted a historic outdoor match at Memorial Stadium that drew an astonishing 92,003 fans — setting the world record for attendance at a women’s sporting event and showcasing volleyball’s incredible ability to unite communities on a global stage.
Cook has also played a major role in the growth of professional volleyball through his leadership as General Manager and Co-Owner of Omaha Supernovas. The franchise has led the world in professional volleyball average attendance for the past two seasons, including a remarkable 10,925 average attendance in 2025. Earlier this year, the Supernovas also established a new U.S. professional volleyball attendance record with a sold-out crowd of 16,838 fans.
His leadership, vision, and lifelong dedication to growing the game continue to inspire volleyball communities around the world.
Join us as we honor one of volleyball’s most influential leaders during the 2026 IVHF Induction Celebration in Holyoke, Massachusetts — the Birthplace of Volleyball — October 16–17, 2026.
🎟️ Tickets are on sale now at IVHF.org
